Recipezaar: Finger Food,Holiday/Event recipes

Speedy Chicken Empanadas

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:46:36 -0400

This recipe I borrowed from Paula deen and tweaked it to make my own. My whole family, even the picky 3 year old loves it! -- posted by GingerlyJ

An Indoor Camembert Picnic Platter for Parties and Fêtes!

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:05:54 -0400

Picnic like the French with a perfectly ripe Camembert, some garlicky sausage and a fresh, crusty baguette - eh voila! No need to go outside for a picnic, if the weather is inclement; enjoy a picnic in your kitchen at the kitchen table, or use the cheese platter as a centrepiece for parties, fêtes, cocktails or social gatherings! Lay a tartan rug on the table and use wicker baskets or a hamper if you wish...........be as "rustique" or as "chic" as you want to be! Great for Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year, as well as for a summer picnics of course! -- posted by French Tart

Honey and Spice Crunch

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 11:41:26 -0400

Another recipe from Southern Living. Very nice for entertaining and parties. -- posted by Maryland Jim

Potato Skinnies

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:00:43 -0400

I love potato skins but I don't love the calories, this recipe has less than half the calories but still has the great taste -- posted by GingerlyJ

Apple Strudel Easy!

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 02:50:21 -0400

This is made easy with store bought puff pastry. I used a mix of dried nuts and dried fruit but you can use either or. -- posted by ~Rita~

Apple Coffee Cake With Crumble Topping

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:40:21 -0400

I got this recipe from food network and it tastes amazing it even has an optional brown sugar glaze -- posted by rachtach123

Rachel's Fried Ravioli

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:49:37 -0400

Very yummy and easy fried ravioli. Feel free to use your own homemade ravioli, I had coupons for Buitoni so I got their whole-wheat 4-cheese ravioli, it turned out great. Using this to make fried gnocchi works well too! (I especially love frying up whole wheat pumpkin gnocchi.) Makes an awesome kid pleaser, comfort food, and party favorite. -- posted by the80srule

Autumn Maple Pecan Layer Cake With Penuche Fudge Frosting

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:08:20 -0400

This wonderful cake recipe is an adapted one from the Magnolia Bakery Cookbook. The penuche fudge frosting is an old Southern recipe. Makes a very attractive presentation, especially when the cake plate is adorned with beautiful autumn leaves. This cake freezes beautifully, just allow the cake to defrost completely before filling and frosting the layers. I recommend Canadian or Vermont maple syrup and Georgia or Texas pecans, but you can use any pure maple syrup and could use walnuts, although we prefer pecans in this recipe. -- posted by BecR

Sour Cream Cheese Puffs

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:46:58 -0400

Recipe by Annie Darling, Minneapolis MN. Annie says "she makes these pretty little puffs for all occasions - from a football party to a wedding rehearsal dinner." tasteifhome.com//appetizers -- posted by Manami

White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:36:09 -0400

Found this today on www.popcorn.org. It looks like a winner to try at Christmas this year. I put used the cooking time as the cooling time. -- posted by enestvmel

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Raisin Cookies

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:44:55 -0400

I made these cookies for Recipe #395680. You can use all raisins or all chips. -- posted by ~Rita~

Strawberry Ghosts

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:03:10 -0400

Kids will gasp in delight at these adorable ghosts from Nancy Mueller in Bloomington, Minnesota. Juicy strawberries, chocolate and a lick of almond flavor make these little bites a howling success! -- posted by Yesi09

Croque Monsieur Puffs

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 17:24:10 -0400

My latest crush is this new incarnation of gourgeres, or cheese puffs. These were inspired by the classic French ham-and-cheese sandwich, Croque Monsieur. If you're serving only one thing with cocktails before dinner, it would have to be these heavenly puffs. They're perfect for "popping" in between sips of a Pear Thyme Fizz or Peach 75. -- posted by College Girl

Microwaved Caramel Apples

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:51:15 -0400

I found this to be the quickest and easiest caramel apple recipe I have tried. I started out using 5 bags of caramels, and then added more as I needed. It really does make the operation much easier using lots of caramel, especially when you can cool and store the rest of the caramel to use in other things, or cut up with scissors and eat as a candy. -- posted by Sue L

Candy Corn Onigiri (Rice Balls)

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:05:28 -0400

For Halloween bento boxes! This is a lunchbox friendly recipe, quick to put together. Prep time does not include cooking of rice, as you can prepare the rice the night before, or use leftover rice. I like cooking my rice fresh in my rice cooker while I fix the rest of the lunches. These would also make good non-sweet treats for a Halloween party. You can also add a smidge of filling to the rice ball before you decorate it, like chicken, squash, or whatever. :) -- posted by CraftScout

Rice Krispie Pumpkin Treats

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:55:49 -0400

Marshmallow rice krispie treat colored orange and shaped into small pumpkin shapes, and using green "Mike & Ike" candies as the stem. Easy, and very kid friendly recipe great for any fall holidays! -- posted by Chef #932139

Mississippi Mud Fondue

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:12:29 -0400

This is a recipe I cut out of my Southern Living Magazine this month...it sounds wonderful. Serve with bite-size brownies, biscotti, graham crackers, marshmallows,or sliced pound cake. -- posted by CIndytc

Creepy Spiders

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 10:01:52 -0500

Sam and I saw these being made on Sandra Lee show. So of course we had to make them. -- posted by ~Rita~

Bed and Breakfast Spiced Pumpkin Scones With Honey Butter

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:04:21 -0500

Gorgeous spiced pumpkin scones with honey butter - what a treat for the tea-time table during autumn and winter. I have made these twice now and love the combination of the honey butter with the scones, although they are also delicious with plain unsalted butter. This recipe came from an Australian "Olive" magazine that was sent to me, apparently, Queensland is famous for its blue pumpkins where this recipe originates from - I added the spices as well as the honey butter! A wonderful recipe for the cooler months, but as it uses tinned or frozen pumpkin, these can be made all year around. If you don't want to serve these with the honey butter, just split them whilst warm and spread with normal butter or cream. Mixed spice is a British spice mixture, I have a recipe for this on RZ: Recipe #266688 -- posted by French Tart

Christmas Muffins - Wholemeal.

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:23:34 -0500

Green, Red and Gold: The colours of Christmas. Make this festive muffin for friends and family, and give another option for those who don't love fruit cake. Happy holidays! -- posted by TALIA #3

Black Olive & Clam Dip

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:46:25 -0500

This is a family favorite that we just cannot seem go without during the Holidays it's a great dip to serve to tide your guests over until your holiday meal is ready. This dip is a kid friendly recipe - I have two younger brothers who absolutely love this dip for them it is a holiday staple. Enjoy! -- posted by Loving Chef

Southwestern Chicken Pinwheels

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:14:59 -0500

I wanted to make pinwheels for our annual Halloween party, but was in a "southwestern" mood, so I came up with this recipe. Everyone at the party enjoyed it - hope you do too! -- posted by Matt, Averie & Kate's Mom

Cheese, Endive and Cranberry Canapes

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:17:34 -0500

This recipe works well with blue cheese such as Stilton or Roquefort, or a soft garlic and herb cheese, or a goat cheese. -- posted by English_Rose

Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 09:00:53 -0500

I had misplaced this recipe and recently found it again. When DD was in Kindergarten the children had to take turns bringing a snack to school for everyone to share and DD loved to bring these cookies. I love this recipe because it doesn't require refrigeration before rolling out and because the cookies always turned out beautifully. The recipe is from a little booklet called Wilton Christmas Recipes & Ideas. Note: If you're using margarine, be sure to use the hard margarine that comes in a brick like butter, not soft tub margarine. -- posted by Dreamer in Ontario

Commander's Tasso Shrimp With Five-Pepper Jelly

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:53:57 -0500

An appetizing first course from the flavor center of the universe, Louisiana. Courtesy of Chef Jamie Shannon of Commander's Palace, featured in The Louisiana New Garde television series. Tasso ham is a specialty of Cajun cuisine and is a spicy, peppery version of smoked pork made from the shoulder butt. -- posted by Molly53

Chocolate Marshmallow Fudge

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:55:02 -0500

Great recipe to use up a few leftover marshmallows and lighter than most! Feel free to throw in a few nuts at the very end. I usually cut these into 36 or even smaller, if you like a larger -- posted by Brooke the Cook in WI

Bourbon Street Buffalo Wings

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 01:39:17 -0500

This recipe is a variation from an episode of Throwdown With Bobby Flay. -- posted by FeelinYummy

Cinnamon Crescents

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:49:59 -0500

I can't remember where I found this recipie, very easy to make, russian Christmas recipe I believe -- posted by Paris-Falls

Pecan Pie Brownies -- Version II

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:43:37 -0500

Here's how to please chocolate lovers and pecan pie lovers with one scrumptious bar. These are the creation of Camilla V. Saulsbury and appeared in her book: Brownie Mix Bliss. These bars have a bottom of chewy chocolate brownie topped with the familiar brown sugar pecan goodness of pecan pie. The author prefers a cakey brownie to contrast with the pecan filling which is why she calls for the three eggs in the brownie batter. But if you want a fudgy brownie, reduce the eggs to 2. Do give these a try! -- posted by Lorraine of AZ

Stuffed Mushroom Caps

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:10:37 -0500

I like the recipe because it is easy to prepare and serve This recipe was given to me by my sister-in-law and dear friend, Lynne I do not use the mushroom stems in the filling (save them for mushroom soup!) when preparing be sure to dice the veggies and shrimp small so that when combined you get a taste of everything in one bite!! -- posted by Chef #1062043

Traditional Scottish Pure Butter Shortbread Cookies - Biscuits

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:49:57 -0500

Scotland's favorite tea-time or Christmas Holiday cookie! The very best fresh dairy butter is a requirement in these cookies, for flavor. Make them into squares or "Petticoat Tails", or any shape you wish. Great for gift giving. Our family favorite recipe, adapted from "Having Tea". -- posted by BecR

Pecan Shortbread Cookies

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:04:26 -0500

Karen DeMasco beats the dough for these buttery cookies with an entire vanilla bean, so the oils in the pod add deep vanilla flavor. By rolling the dough in turbinado sugar before slicing and baking the cookies, she makes them extra-crispy. (Recipe adapted from The Craft of Baking.) Recipe found on Food & Wine and is a staff favorite. -- posted by JanuaryBride

Coconut Ice - Old-Fashioned Sweet Shop Coconut Candy

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:49:09 -0500

A trip down Memory Lane! This is my mum's recipe for Coconut Ice, little coconut squares which are coloured pink and white, and used to be popular in old-fashioned British sweet (candy) shops. My mum used to make trays and trays of these for our Church fêtes, as well as for Christmas and for gifts. These lovely little coconut morsels are very popular in Scotland where I think my mum's recipe originated either from my Scottish grandmother or an auntie. These are great fun to make with the children, as they are easy as well as being "no-cook". If you plan to make them for gifts or to sell, pack them into attractive cellophane bags, glass jars or boxes and add a pretty ribbon as well as a label of ingredients and storage details. This recipe is part of my Old Fashioned Sweet Shop collection of recipes, sweets, candies, fudges, sugar plums and chocolates! -- posted by French Tart

Mom's Rice Crispy Treats

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 17:43:50 -0500

a quick easy large quanity of YUMMY rice crispy treats. like my mom loves to make. also some mixins if you like. -- posted by Barbi Ebby

Low Carb Jalapeno Poppers

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 17:43:54 -0500

I was craving poppers but didn't want super greasy bacon or high carb breading so I invented these... Sometimes instead of the garlic powder and seasoning salt, I use 2 tsp of a product called Johnny's Garlic Spread Seasoning which is just awesome - I buy it at Costco here in Canada. The number of jalapenos varies depending on the size you get and how much spread you put inside each half! Tried it with fat-free cream cheese and it just didn't have a good texture. Have also used shredded taco cheese blend right out of the freezer instead of plain cheddar! -- posted by Cadillacgirl

Festive Sugar Plums - Old Fashioned Sweetmeats

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:37:27 -0500

I love the Nutcracker Ballet and the music that accompanies it, especially the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies! These fabulous little festive sweetmeats are based on a recipe that I adapted from Delia Smith's latest and BRILLIANT cookbook, "Happy Christmas". I have made these TWICE already - as a pre-Christmas dummy run, and they are SO easy as well as being extremely delicious! Sugar plums are mentioned in all forms of literature; most famously in The Night Before ChristmasThe children were nestled, all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads". However, they are a VERY old kind of sweet/candy, and I have traced some recipes right back to the Middle Ages in one guise or another, usually with minced meat hence sweet meat. This recipe can be made as a boozy after dinner adult treat, or with orange juice so the children can dream of them dancing in their heads! NB: These are great fun to make with the children, as they are easy as well as being "no-cook". If you plan to make them for gifts or to sell, pack them into attractive cellophane bags, glass jars or boxes and add a pretty ribbon as well as a label of ingredients and storage details. This recipe is part of my Old Fashioned Sweet Shop collection of recipes, sweets, candies, fudges, sugar plums and chocolates! -- posted by French Tart

Jewel Studded Holiday Fudge With Ginger and Cranberries

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:42:20 -0500

A delectable holiday fudge, which is the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. This buttery, crumbly fudge is enhanced and made more festive by studding it with rich, jewel-like fruit. If you do not have stem ginger handy, you can use crystallised ginger or glace ginger instead. Making fudge the proper way involves using a sugar, jam or candy thermometer - or you can use the "soft ball" method if you do not have a suitable thermometer. Drop a small spoonful of the fudge into cold water, if it forms a malleable soft ball, the setting temperature has been reached. If you plan to make this fudge for gifts or to sell, pack the squares into attractive cellophane bags, glass jars or boxes and add a pretty ribbon as well as a label of ingredients. This recipe is part of my Old Fashioned Sweet Shop collection of recipes, sweets, candies, fudges, sugar plums and chocolates! -- posted by French Tart

Smoked Salmon Spirals

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:33:47 -0500

This is a wonderful last minute or make ahead and freeze appetizer (they can be frozen up to 1 month). The recipe comes from The Canadian Living Christmas Book. Cooking time is time in freezer (must freeze for at least 4 hours). -- posted by Dreamer in Ontario

Festive Bavarian Bites

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:33:38 -0500

This is from the December 2009 issue of First Magazine. They look beautiful! Total time does not include time to chill. -- posted by SmoochTheCook

Crab & Polenta Bruschetta

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 09:49:50 -0500

As you probably know, my family before-me loved polenta and they still do. So this recipe caught my attention, and then we bought the items and yesterday we made it! I loved it & the staff did too! :) Feel free to substitute ready-to-eat-polenta if you'd like. Slice it into rounds (as it looks like a round log) grill, and then top with crab salad. Actually - the whole recipe could all be store-bought-ready-to-eat! However, I doubt that it would taste as great IMHO! ;) CuisineAtHome, Issue #78, December 2009.Total cooking & prep time = 1 hr + chilling. -- posted by Manami

V's Soft Turkey Taquitos With Southwestern Dip

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:58:07 -0500

Every year my dad would make these taquitos with leftover turkey. The corn tortillas are lightly fried in oil, rolled with turkey and sealed on a griddle and come out soft with a nice crunch with the turkey still moist and delicious. These are awesome because they are not deep fried or baked. I took over the tradition and have been making these for years. My family won't eat any leftover turkey in any other form except these soft taquitos. We look forward to these as an appetizer or a meal served with my own Southwestern Dip, Cheese Sauce, Salsa and my Chunky Guacomole the day after thanksgiving. -- posted by Vseward (Chef~V)

White Christmas Holiday Eggnog Fudge

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 17:30:24 -0500

Our family favorite white fudge! White, creamy rich and oh-so-good!! I make this every year for Christmas, and give plenty away as gifts. Enjoy! -- posted by BecR

Potato & Cheese Latkes With Apple-Pear Sauce

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 11:16:25 -0500

I found these online about 6 years ago and never posted them. What I like is that they are savory and a combination of both cheese and potato.The potato-cheese latkes prep time = 15 mins & frying time = 10 mins per batch. The apple-pear sauce prep time = 10 mins & cooking time = 20 mins. While there is nothing like the traditional applesauce and sour cream, here's this variation - easy to make and tastes great!!!!;) -- posted by Manami

Chicken and Mushroom Panini

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:50:56 -0500

Super-Fast from Cooking Light Magazine, November 2009 edition.These were a lot of fun to make because we had a lot of help and we couldn't wait to eat these delicious sandwiches.:) -- posted by Manami

Cheese Ball Dip

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:50:52 -0500

Someone gave me this recipe many years ago after I tried it, loved it and had to have the recipe. It's always my favorite choice for appetizer. I always get rave reviews and it is always devoured. It's so easy to make. This great cheese ball dip is excellent served with the crackers called "Sociables". I never use anything else with it. NOTE: I often get 6-8 ounces deli ham (instead of a package of wafer thin sandwich ham) and ask them to slice it wafer thin or shave it for a recipe. -- posted by Kathy Orell

Vanilla Sugared Almonds

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 11:28:37 -0500

Recipe is from the Almond Board of California. -- posted by Sweet Jezebel

Grape Jelly Meatballs

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:22:04 -0500

Easy and tasty meatballs. -- posted by NumbaOneStina

Halloween Butterfinger Eyes

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:29:33 -0500

Ahhhhh! Scary! These are so fun for a Halloween party, children and adults both devour them. They are different than the usual recipe because you add Butterfinger candy bars for a nice crunch! -- posted by Rollin in the Dough!

Italian Egg Rolls

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:43:11 -0500

Everyone loves egg rolls! These are stuffed with sausage and spinach for an unexpected treat. Yummy! -- posted by College Girl

Easy Cheesy Chili Dip

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:17:20 -0500

I got this recipe from Campbells. I never can make enough! Its great for people who don't like a lot of kick in their dips, but it can be adjusted for the flaming-mouth lovers. Can be made the night before if needed. -- posted by rodeoblonde

Creamy Mushroom Bruschetta

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:24:56 -0500

This is from a bi-monthly foodie magazine published in town and this was from the head chef at an amazing restaurant in Calgary called Brava Bistro. So decadent and delicious! Even my mushroom hating boyfriend liked it! good, because you can prepare the mushrooms and the cream ahea of time and then just assemble quickly when your guest are there! -- posted by Cadillacgirl

Monkey Balls! No Banana Macadamia Balls

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 18:48:02 -0500

No cook and quick to make in the food processor. Let set for 1 week in a closed container for flavores to meld. -- posted by ~Rita~

Monkey Balls! No Banana Macadamia Balls

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 18:49:05 -0500

No cook and quick to make in the food processor. Let set for 1 week in a closed container for flavores to meld. -- posted by ~Rita~

Gluten Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:37:11 -0500

I have tricked several wheat eaters with this recipe. Very tasty and not gritty like typical gluten free recipes. Our normal grocery store carries soy flour and shouldn't be too hard to find. Definitely worth using! Adds protein and fiber and I think it helps with texture. You could probably get away with omitting the teaspoon of guar gum, but I have it on hand and use it. I've used both milk, lactaid and soy milk for this recipe without any problems. I have also used pure pumpkin and pumpkin pie mix (this will make the batter more watery, so bake a little longer). You don't have to use the chocolate chips, they'll still be quite tasty! -- posted by Zizek

Sausage Wonton Cups

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:49:53 -0500

I made these for my niece's first birthday and they were a huge hit. I had to make several batches and they just kept disappearing all day. I usually make a double batch to make sure they last. Also, it is usually better to have a mini cupcake pan to make these. -- posted by Bekahbv

Easy Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 12:14:07 -0500

Sweet treats for anytime or occasion. For the kids or dinner parties.This recipe comes from Real Simple February 2009. In 10 minutes you have a great dessert or sweet snack with few ingredients. We made them for the holidays and topped with green sprinkles but you can top with anything your heart desires. The site wouldn't let me use just topping so I had to put ice cream topping but there is no ice cream involved here. You get the idea though. Enjoy this little ditty. ChefDLH -- posted by ChefDLH

Cranberry Swirl Bread

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 13:03:49 -0500

So perfect for the holidays. They say this can be made with Cranberries or Dates. . .you pick! Recipe from Taste of Home, so you know it's good!!! Prep time including rising time. -- posted by JanuaryBride

Fantasy Fudge

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:55:44 -0500

A delicious and easy microwavable fudge recipe. From the Great American Brand Name Cookbook Collector's Edition. -- posted by Chef #686251

Chocolate Mint Cookie Tarts

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 16:13:25 -0500

I was planning to make recipe#113299 for a Christmas party and wanted a chocolate tart as well so I just used my favorite chocolate cookie recipe and added things here and there! They turned out great!! Half way through the party they were all gone, people were hoarding them because they were disappearing so fast! They taste alot like Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies, can't go wrong there :) -- posted by Rollin in the Dough!

Mounds Morsels

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 18:41:00 -0500

Delightful brownie bites mounded with sweet chewy coconut covered with chocolate glaze. With an optional choice of almond joy topping. This is a take on almond joys and or mounds bars over brownies. -- posted by ~Rita~

Scallop-Spinach Spread

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 09:29:51 -0500

Coastal Living Magazine, December 2009 edition - while you are preparing other canapés, you can have this ready to serve. Also, do the same with cold hors d'oeuvres. -- posted by Manami

Artichoke Spinach Dip With Roasted Red Bell Peppers

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:41:49 -0500

Recipe courtesy Guy Fieri, It is easy - 6 minute prep time and it can be made ahead of time. Once you have prepared it, you need to warm it but that's free time to do other things. I have tweaked the recipe to suit our needs. :) -- posted by Manami

Curried Coconut Shrimp Balls on Bamboo Spoons

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:42:19 -0500

These curried coconut shrimp balls were absolutely awesome! I was very leary about making these much less trying them - I don't like coconut that much and curry and I - just don't get along! :( However, I tasted these and I was convinced - loved them thoroughly! :) Coastal Living Magazine, December 2009 edition. There is a 1 hour chill time. The disposable bamboo spoons, make cleanup a snap,; pack of 25 for $9.49 at: webrestaurantstore.com. -- posted by Manami

Melt in Your Mouth Spritz

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:47:09 -0500

Spritz are a Christmas staple in my family. We have tried lots of different recipes and this is a modified recipe from our top 3 favorites. -- posted by Chef Ali L

Sweet Club Cracker Snacks

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:08:23 -0500

This is a fantastic, quick to prepare snack. You will love the combination of salty/sweet taste and the crunch of the almonds and browned crackers. I got the recipe from my friend after we tasted these snacks at her home. These crackers are really pleasing to the eye and will keep several days in a container with a tightly-fitting lid. They would also make a great Christmas gift in a decorative tin. -- posted by Saute Gently

Little Smoked Salmon Cucumber Cups With Peppered Creme Fraiche

Sun, 27 Dec 2009 15:30:18 -0500

Delightful and EASY little smoked salmon and cucumber appetisers, and healthy too, with NO pastry! These are a breeze to make but they tick all the taste boxes, as well as being elegant. Cucumbers do vary in size, and I have suggested a medium cucumber, which is about 10" to 12" long.........however, any size will do!! Adjust the crème fraiche to how many cups you yield from a cucumber, I managed to make 30 cups and used 10 tablespoons of crème fraîche for that amount, 1 teaspoon per cup. Serve these with cocktails and pre-dinner drinks, or as part of a buffet. The cucumber cups and crème fraîche can be prepared beforehand, but these should only be assembled 1 hour before serving (at the most) and covered in cling film to ensure the smoked salmon does not dry out. Allow 2 to 4 per person, depending on what else is served. -- posted by French Tart

Escargot Vol-Au-Vent. Garlic Butter Snails in Mini Vol-Au-Vents

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:06:33 -0500

Garlicky buttered snails served in little light vol-au-vent cases, what a treat for all snail lovers! Living in France gives me access to some wonderful escargots, as well as superb garlic and butter too. These are just brilliant when served as appetisers for New Year or any other festive gathering. The beauty of these over the classic snails served in a baker or in their shells, is that you can eat the WHOLE thing! EVERY single bit of that naughty but exceedingly nice garlic and herb butter, all in one amazing mouthful! If you are unable to get hold of mini vol-au-vents, I have posted an alternative way to make your own little puff pastry cases, using readymade pastry for ease of preparation! Allow 2 to 3 per person if these are being served with other nibbles and appetisers. (Prep time includes baking the cases if not using readymade vol-au-vent cases.) -- posted by French Tart

Boxing Day Bars

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:42:41 -0500

1. To give you that extra energy boost if you are one of those crazy boxing day shoppers! 2. Great recipe to make from leftover Halloween or Christmas candy or pick up the ingredients cheap on Boxing Day! This is my adaptation from a recipe originally published in Better Homes and Gardens... Feel free to substitute candies and let me know if it works (I'm thinking Snickers, chocolate covered cranberries, crushed oreo cookies... endless possibilities!) -- posted by Tanya Pants

Bacon!

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:50:57 -0500

Smokies wrapped in bacon. Great for get togethers so you don't eat the whole pan yourself! -- posted by craftykeya

Mom's Holiday Mint Balls

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:08:50 -0500

This is a recipe that my mom used to make around the holidays. We even quadrupled it and used it at my sister's wedding. -- posted by lil sis93

Pepper-Pecan Dip

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 01:34:25 -0500

This dip is a great combination of nuts, savory cheese, and sweet red pepper jelly. I enjoyed it at my in-law's this Christmas. It's great with wheat thins or other crackers. -- posted by Chef #592481

Crab Balls With Grapefruit Salad

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 08:52:12 -0500

Crab Balls with Grapefruit Salad Recipe by Jean-Georges Vongerichten The crab and grapefruit in this dish first appeared at the restaurant Spice Market tossed with cold glass noodles. Jean Georges Vongerichten decided it was a "messy pile," but liked the flavors, so he reconfigured them into crab balls rolled in panko (Japanese bread crumbs) and sesame seeds. The side salad is a fabulous mix of tart (grapefruit), spicy (Thai chile) and sweet (ginger syrup). ;) F&W Magazine, From: Jean Georges's Best Small Plates, Published, July 2006 edition. 2 hr 20 min freezing and thawing time. -- posted by Manami

Crispy Chicken and Vegetable Croquettes (Croquetes De Rostit)

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 10:24:46 -0500

Recipe by Jeff KoehlerIsmael Prados, the Jamie Oliver of Catalonia, is the chef at La Vinya del Senyor, a Barcelona tapas bar with two branches. Prados presides over the newer one, on the north side of the city center, preparing delicious snacks like these crispy, delicately spiced ;) Croquetes de Rostit.F&W Magazine, From: Best Tapas from the Best Tapas Bar, published in February 2005 edition. WINE PAIRING:Search for easy-to-find bright, fruity rosé - try the 2003 Gonzalez Lara Fuente del Conde Rosado de Tempranillo or the 2003 Faustino V Rosé :( Sorry, forgot to account for cooling time of 1 hour+. -- posted by Manami

Liz's Chocolate Turtle Cake.

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 02:27:05 -0500

My father's a Chef. We made this the other day and it was great. I asked for measurements (sense he doesn't measure, all he does is pour in) and he gave to me. Hope you guys like. If your wondering what "spread caramel within 1" from the edge. Spread to within 1", means you want to leave a plain one inch border around the edges. Also, How did we cut the squares so perfectly? All we used was a sharp knife (that we dipped and wiped dry, every time) in hot water. Hope this helps, if you have any questions, let me know... Enjoy!!! -- posted by .Liz.(Daddy's little Chef)

Dycio Crescents

Sat, 02 Jan 2010 10:35:34 -0500

These crescents are not very sweet, but light and flaky in texture, and the jam centers make them that much more delightful. I used the Solo Apricot filling, but the Almond flavor is also a very good choice for variation. This recipe was passed on to me by a friends who bakes without written recipes, and put a lot of effort to give me the ingredients and preparation directions. If you would like to see a picture of the finished product, please check it out on my blog: http://suburbangrandma.com/recipes/dycio-crescents-cookie-recipe/ -- posted by Suburban Grandma

Francis's Chili Cream Dip

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:29:53 -0500

Aunt Fran gave me this recipe for an easy great tasting dip. -- posted by Ceezie

Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken Wings

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:30:49 -0500

Recipe is from the Steamykitchen blog -- posted by FeelinYummy

Ginger and Lime Salmon Tartare

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:50:31 -0500

An easy way to prepare raw fish for anyone loving sweet and sour flavors. This tartare is meant to be served in appetizer spoons or small verrines but if you wish to have it as a unique starter, count about 4.5 oz salmon per serving and adapt the ingredients quantity accordingly. Original recipe here: http://frenchcookingfordummies.com/2010/ginger-and-lime-salmon-tartare/ -- posted by French Cooking for Dummies

Fortnum and Masons Authentic Scotch Eggs With Sausage and Herbs

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:06:45 -0500

Freshly boiled eggs are encased in a herb flavoured sausage jacket and are then deep-fried until golden and crisp, delicious! Contrary to popular belief, Scotch eggs are not Scottish, and they were actually invented by the famous London department store Fortnum & Mason in 1738, where they are still available today. The word "Scotch" is an old English word meaning to chop or mince, and obviously, the eggs are covered with chopped or minced pork sausage meat, hence the name Scotch Eggs. They are traditional British picnic food but I also like to serve them as a light lunch or snack, and they make a wonderful addition to the buffet table. These tasty traditional English specialities have had bad press over the years; mainly down to commercial mass production, but if you make them at home with fresh, free-range eggs and the best quality sausage meat, they will taste divine, and they will always be the stars of the picnic hamper or family lunch table! PLEASE use high quality sausage meat or sausages, with at least 70% meat content.Historical Note: Founded in 1707, Fortnum & Mason (F&M) stocks "food fit for a queen". The 300-year-old British department store, famous for its jams, teas, and sauces, provides the Queen with her annual supply of Christmas puddings and holds the "Royal Warrant. -- posted by French Tart

Traditional Potted Spiced Ham for Tea Time by Mrs Beeton

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:04:02 -0500

An old-fashioned treat, this is a fabulous way to use up left over ham, although I have also put some freshly cooked ham aside especially for this when I have baked a ham for Christmas, Easter or another special occasion. The ham is finely minced and mixed through with old-fashioned spices and butter, and it keeps for several weeks in a cool place. Another name for this recipe is Potted Meat, and it was VERY popular in Victorian times, although recipes for potted meats (preserved under butter) goes back even further than that historically. Wonderful in sandwiches for the teatime table or for picnics, lunch boxes and festive buffets. This is an adapted recipe from Mrs Beetons Book of Household Management, where she suggests that this is a nice addition for the Breakfast or Luncheon table. Serve with sliced breads of all types, oatcakes, toast, bread rolls, and crackers or with salad, chutneys, mustard and pickles. NB: Use a good cooked ham on the bone for this recipe: the sort carved by hand at the deli and old-fashioned butchers. So called "cooking time" is chill time. -- posted by French Tart

Buttermilk and Sour Cherry Scones for Afternoon Tea and Picnics

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:23:23 -0500

A delightful and EASY scone recipe that is perfect for a proper afternoon tea or to take on a picnic. Dried sour cherries are sensational and give a deep essence of cherry flavour to these scones, whilst the buttermilk makes them light and airy. This is a casual eating scone, easy to rustle up, and is perfect when eaten fresh from the oven with butter and maybe some cherry jam and cream too! If taking on a picnic, wrap the scone in a clean tea towel to keep it warm and pack the butter and jam separately. Makes one large scone, which is marked to split into wedges when served. -- posted by French Tart

Bite-Size Wasabi Crab Cakes & Ginger Aioli

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:49:49 -0500

This crab cake mixture can be made several hours ahead. After cooked keep warm in 200ºF oven for about an hour. Coastal Living Magazine, December 2009 edition. We used these for our party, as well and I didn't even get to taste them but they smelled deeevine! :) -- posted by Manami

Nacho Popcorn

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 21:35:12 -0500

Source:LCBO's Food & Drink Magazine. -- posted by Dreamer in Ontario

Irish Rarebit on Soda Bread With Cheddar Cheese and Ale

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:32:04 -0500

An easy and very tasty rarebit dish made with Irish cheddar cheese and the ubiquitous Irish ale, Guinness. The Emerald Isle produces some great dairy products and none is better than their butter and Cheddar style cheese. This recipe has Ireland written right the way through it, using soda bread as the base for this cheesy snack, as well as the aforementioned cheese and ale. I have also made these to eat with a bowl of hearty soup or Irish stew, perfect for a cold or damp winter's day. Amazing high tea time food as well; served with salad, chutneys and pickles for a cheap and easy fire-side supper. -- posted by French Tart

Cinnamon Twists

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:48:28 -0500

My aunt used to make these cookies when I was younger, and I liked them enough to have my mother get the recipe for them. My aunt died not long after, and the recipe was misplaced. It recently resurfaced, so I'm submitting it to Zaar so it doesn't get lost again. (Unfortunately the recipe doesn't say how large or thick the dough circles should be, so some experimentation might be necessary! I've also guessed at the cooking time - please watch your cookies!) -- posted by CassiaDawn

Texas Roadhouse Rolls and Cinnamon Butter

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:34:28 -0500

Texas roadhouse has the best rolls and i was craving some. After a bit of searching I found this recipe and edited it a little.Usually I half the recipe. Enjoy :) -- posted by Kierstein

Savory Bacon Bites

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:02:32 -0500

Bacon wrapped sweet onions on skewers. Nice. -- posted by College Girl

Crispy Everything Kale Chips

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 12:33:27 -0500

Kale a Super-food that your Children will eat as a snack or a side. Or the Guys to enjoy as chips during the game. If you have leftovers try them tossed in a salad, soup, pasta, rice, in a sandwich..... One cup of raw kale contains 15% of the recommended daily value of calcium and Vitamin B6, 40% of the magnesium, 180% of the Vitamin A, 200% of the Vitamin C and a whopping 1020% of the Vitamin K. Also loaded with sulfur containing phytonutrients which have been shown to protect against many kinds of cancer. So don't just garnish with it! It does your body GREAT! -- posted by ~Rita~

Melted Foie Gras on Country Bread With Armagnac

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 20:19:36 -0500

This fabulous Dean and Deluca recipe was inspired by an extraordinary restaurant near Baden-Baden, in Germany. The chef sautéed thick slices of country bread in duck fat, with garlic, then simply melted very thin slices of fresh foie gras over the bread. Though it's astoundingly simple to do, it's a mightily impressive starter for a lusty dinner party. Serves 4 as a first course. -- posted by BecR

Spinach Pie - Spanikopita

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:24:26 -0500

Easy to do, just remember to keep unused phyllo dough covered with clean, damp kitchen towel while you are working with it or it will get hard and unuseable. -- posted by kimboleyanne

Turkey and Earl Grey Honey Butter Tea Sandwiches

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:35:28 -0500

You don't have to be British to enjoy these wonderful tea-time sandwiches! From about.com. -- posted by BecR

Barbeque Sauce Ribs

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:15:53 -0500

A salty-sweet glaze, with a chili kick, makes these ribs taste finger-lickin' good! -- posted by English_Rose

Spicy Shrimp Wraps

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 21:33:43 -0500

You don't have to heat up the kitchen to make this crowd pleaser. It is perfect to make, grab and go for a charming waterside gathering. We made this on the beach and placed the shrimp over bright green banana leaves and it looked so tropical! :) I could feel the the breeze from the Gulf - oh how beautiful! -- posted by Manami

Elegant Tarragon and Tomato Butter Tea Sandwiches

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 09:56:30 -0500

These delightful and rather unusual tea sandwiches combine the delicate French herb tarragon, with ripe tomatoes, garlic and shallots a change from the usual basil and tomatoes. The tomatoes are gently poached with all the seasonings until a thick puree or butter is obtained; the tomato butter is then cooled and you are left with a wondrous sandwich filling, bursting with flavour and colour! The butter can be used for all manner of things, including a topping for a pizza or for toasted sandwiches. Use fresh bread, white or wholemeal, and garnish with fresh tarragon leaves. Any excess butter can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge. NB: Prep time includes chilling time for the butter. -- posted by French Tart

Victorian Watercress Tea Sandwiches for High Tea and Picnics

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:20:30 -0500

During Victorian times, children used to take watercress sandwiches to school in place of meat ones. I love them, especially when cut into small trianges and served with a cuppa (cup of tea!). Use the freshest bread - I like to use wholemeal, and a fresh salted farmhouse butter. I have inlcluded a soup idea at the end of the recipe, to be made with the excess stalks! So a soup and sandwich recipe then! -- posted by French Tart

Pain DÉpices - Spiced French Gingerbread Loaf With Honey

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:20:36 -0500

A French classic and one that I will me making myself from now on, having just paid a small fortune for a tiny, if delicious loaf from my local boulangerie! This is a cross between sticky ginger parkin and a gingerbread cake or a tea loaf. It is not as moist as parkin or gingerbread, but it is extremely good when spread with butter or even better, when toasted.......divine! It is also surprisingly good when served with cheese. Another idea that I discovered in a local café, is to serve it warm with a dollop of crème fraiche and a little bunch of fresh berries on top, a perfect dessert for an elegant dinner party! This improves with keeping and makes a wonderful gift for a foodie friend or hostess wrap in cellophane and attach a ribbon with serving suggestions. If you cannot source Quatre Épices, I have a recipe on zaar to make it at home! Recipe #283280 -- posted by French Tart

Ham Spinach and Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:36:03 -0500

This recipe came from the Taste of Home cookbook. I make these for a meal or filling appetizer. The original recipe calls for garlic and herb cream cheese, but I have also used whipped chive cream cheese. -- posted by Chef #1545460

Garlic Chipotle Chicken Wings

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:16:16 -0500

These wings were a hit at our Super Bowl party! Enjoy a lightly breaded wing with a little kick. -- posted by subaruthie

Black Bean and Corn Dip With Cilantro and Lime

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:18:28 -0500

It's like crack. Guaranteed no leftovers. -- posted by Matty H.

Holiday Appetillas

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:16:01 -0500

Dressed to impress with festive red and green vegetables, these Christmas appetizers are so easy to make, kids can help assemble them for your winter guests. -- posted by FoodLovingCook